Are you thinking about skipping photos with Santa this year? COVID-19 has made it difficult to do just about anything, but if you're open to doing things a little bit differently, you can still salvage some of the magic of a visit with the jolly one.
While many local events are cancelled, some area organizers and malls have gotten creative to keep families and Santas safe. Touting glare-free barriers, 6-feet distancing, mask wearing and cleaning -- the in-person options commonly require reservations due to limited space to wait. Not having to wait in a line is silver lining some will appreciate.
Cherry Hill Programs (AKA mall Santas)
Search for a location and make a reservation.
10 Metro-detroit mall locations including Fairlane Town Center, Macomb Mall, Great Lakes Crossing Outlets and more. Search for the nearest mall Santa and make a reservation. Kids will be able to talk to Santa, but lap sitting isn't allowed. Masks must be worn at all times for anyone over the age of two.
Santa Brunch at Sherwood Brewing Company
45689 Hayes Road
Shelby Charter Township, MI 48315
Sat, December 12
10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Get info and book an appointment.
The visit with Santa will be eight minutes and physically disdanced. There will be a bench to sit on where Santa is positioned 6 feet behind. Bring your own camera for pictures. $10 per child with the purchase of a Brunch to Go pack. ($30-$45) Get info and book an appointment at the link.
Birmingham Santa House
399 N Bates St S
Birmingham, MI 48009
Make a reservation and view the full schedule.
Santa will be physically distanced outside his quaint and festively decorated "home" under the pavillion in Shain Park. Families are encouraged to wear masks at this outdoor venue, but can take them off for their photo. The events are held Saturdays and Sundays.
A Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus at Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm
1005 Van Hoosen Road
Rochester Hills, MI 48306
Get info and make a reservation.
On Saturday, December 5 from 9 to 4 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting with families in a 1940's farmhouse. Masks are required. The cost is $35 per car up to six people. Members save $10. Organizers ask that you stay in your car until your time.
Photos with Santa by Howell Recreation
925 West Grand River Avenue
Howell, MI 48843
Register online.
On Thursday December 3rd from 5 to 10 p.m. take a photo with Santa outside the Bennett Recreation Center. Santa will be in a giant inflatable snow globe. A photographer will be onsite and one printed photo is free of charge. Donations are appreciated.
Virtual Santa Visit
JingleRing Virtual Santa Visit
jinglering.com
A lot of us are now much more familiar with video meetings now that many schools are virtual and some of us are working from home. This is like that, but with a bit more magic sprinkled on top. Schedule a live video chat with Santa.
$25 for a 10-20 minute live session. Three children included, but an additional fee is added for each child. (6 maximum per session) Want grandma or uncle George to be able to eavesdrop on the visit? Guests can be included and watch along while muted. Customize your visit with talent that shares your language, ethnicity and faith. They also offer what they call "Sensitive Santa" for families with special needs children. Don't have the wherewithall to pull of a scheduled visit? Get a pre-recorded message from Santa for $20.
It turns out there are still plenty of options for kids to get some good old face time with Santa Claus even during a pandemic.
